Becoming a citizen of the United States was important to Abel Leal, the head custodian at Greenfield Elementary, because he has resided in this country since he and his family moved from Cuba in 2000 and he is proud to be an American.
After a long application process, Leal learned on October 21 that he had passed his citizenship test, and immediately told his co-workers at Greenfield, who he considers family, his wonderful news.
“Everyone at our school knew how important becoming a U.S. citizen was to Abel, and we are all very excited for him,” said Principal Maren Firment.
To celebrate Abel’s achievement, school faculty planned a surprise party in the media center. The entire room had a patriotic theme of red, white and blue, and Able was served an All-American menu of hot dogs, chips and a cake decorated with stars and stripes. Students throughout the school made cards and banners for Abel, and kindergarten students sung to him as he walked in.
Abel also received an American flag pin, a gift from Principal Firment’s husband, Raymond.
“Abel’s citizenship has been a wonderful example for our students,” said Firment. “They have realized that being an American is special and shouldn’t be something they just take for granted.”
Abel is now working on his next goal: becoming a teacher. He is currently taking college courses so that he will one day be able to teach in a school like the one he loves working at now.
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